Wife of Former NFL Quarterback Richard Todd Arrested After Allegedly Attacking Him With Pliers During Argument

The wife of former NFL quarterback Richard Todd has been arrested in Alabama after allegedly attacking her husband with a pair of pliers during an argument at their home, according to court documents.

Debra Darby Todd, 68, was taken into custody following an alleged domestic violence incident involving her husband, Richard Todd, 72, a former quarterback for the New York Jets and New Orleans Saints.

According to a court deposition obtained by Fox News and cited by PEOPLE, the incident reportedly occurred at approximately 11 p.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, at the couple’s residence in Florence, Alabama.

Court documents allege that Debra intentionally caused physical injuries to her husband by striking him multiple times with a pair of pliers during an argument.

Richard reportedly suffered multiple cuts and abrasions to his arms as a result of the alleged assault. However, he did not require medical treatment and declined transportation to a hospital, according to reports.

Following the incident, Debra was booked into the Lauderdale County Jail and charged with second-degree domestic violence assault, a felony under Alabama law. Her bond was reportedly set at $30,000.

As of the latest reports, her name no longer appeared in the jail’s custody records, suggesting that she may have been released on bond. Authorities have not publicly confirmed further details regarding her release.

A court date for Debra Todd was still pending as of November 11. The case remains an ongoing legal matter, and the allegations have not yet been proven in court.

Richard Todd is a well-known former football player who enjoyed a lengthy professional career in the NFL. Born in Mobile, Alabama, he played college football at the University of Alabama under legendary head coach Paul “Bear” Bryant.

During his college career from 1972 to 1975, Todd helped the Crimson Tide win the 1973 national championship and several Southeastern Conference titles. He was also named first-team All-SEC in 1975.

His success in college football led the New York Jets to select him with the sixth overall pick in the first round of the 1976 NFL Draft.

Todd spent most of his professional career with the Jets before finishing his NFL career with the New Orleans Saints. He played 11 seasons in the league, recording more than 20,000 passing yards and 124 touchdown passes.

One of the most notable moments of his career came during the 1982 season, when he led the Jets to the AFC Championship Game against the Miami Dolphins.

After retiring from professional football, Todd moved into the investment banking and securities industry. He was later inducted into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame in 1998.

The arrest of his wife has brought renewed attention to the former quarterback and his family. For now, authorities have not released additional information about what led to the alleged confrontation.

SOURCE:

PEOPLE Magazine – November 12, 2026